ESSEX Firefighters are urging neighbours not to ignore smoke alarms, following an incident in Chadwell St Mary in the early hours of this morning.
A pregnant woman was woken up by her smoke alarms going off just after 12:45am, after falling asleep while cooking.
When firefighters arrived at the ninth floor flat they quickly extinguished the chip pan fire and ensured the area was safe.
Watch Manager Kevin Hercock, Orsett Fire Station, said:
“While at the scene, a number of neighbours mentioned they had heard the smoke alarms going off but hadn’t called the Fire and Rescue Service because they assumed someone else had.
“Never ignore your neighbour’s smoke alarm and don’t assume we already know or that it’s a false alarm.
“Smoke alarms alert everyone to the first sign of fire, and by taking notice of your neighbour’s alarm you could just save their life. “Thankfully in this incident the woman escaped without injury.”
Not got working smoke alarms in your home? We’ll fit them for free!
We want every home in Essex to be protected by smoke alarms – so if you don’t have them in your property, we’ll come and visit you and fit them free of charge.
Simply call 0300 303 0088 or head to essex-fire.gov.uk/book to arrange your visit.
